DESTRUCTIVE incoming ex-hurricane Ophelia has led to the cancellation of a flight from East Midlands Airport to Ireland later today (Monday).

The storm is set to batter much of the UK and Ireland with winds of up to 75mph as the tropical cyclone rises from the Atlantic.

Western Britain is on alert with the remnants of Ophelia just 150 miles from the south-western Irish coast at around 6am on Monday morning.

Northern Ireland, Devon and Cornwall, Wales and western Scotland are set to be battered by the worst of the conditions in the UK. Waves of 40ft are expected off the south-west coast and winds will reach up to 75 mph in the Irish Sea.

Violent and destructive winds are also expected over higher ground with gusts of around 60mph set to batter west Wales and the southern tip of the Isle of Man.

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And the incoming storm has led Ryanair to cancel a load of flights today (Monday), including flight FR1742 from East Midlands Airport to Knock in Ireland.

A spokesperson for Ryanair said: “We regret to advise customers that due to adverse weather expected in Ireland on October 16, we have been forced to cancel the below flights.

“Unfortunately, further flight delays and cancellations are likely and customers are asked to please monitor this notice which will be updated throughout the day.

“We sincerely apologise for any delays or inconvenience caused by these disruptions which are outside of our control.”

Schools and colleges will be closed in Northern Ireland, which is covered with an amber weather warning - meaning there is a “potential risk to life and property”, issued when forecasters believe people need to be prepared to change their plans and protect themselves from the impacts of severe weather.

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Forecasters are warning of flying debris, such as tiles blown from roofs, as well as large waves around coastal districts with beach material being thrown on to coastal roads, sea fronts and properties.

A yellow warning is in place for much of Wales, Scotland, north east England, north west England, south west England and the West Midlands.

Much of Ireland is also in lockdown with transport, health services and schools all axed for Monday after Met Eireann, the Irish Meteorological Service, issued a red alert warning of a threat to lives and property.